9 Best Tufted Storage Trunks Influencers Praise
I tie my love of weekend DIY projects and cozy reading nooks to furniture choices more than most people realize. When I’m refinishing a vintage table or styling a shelf for Instagram, storage trunks become my go-to: they hide clutter, boost texture, and double as seating or a coffee table. Influencers I follow on YouTube—design-focused channels with serious cred—keep recommending tufted storage trunks for how they blend glamour with practicality, so I tried the top picks and wrote up what I learned.
Why tufted storage trunks are one of my favorite multi-taskers
I adore items that serve more than one purpose. A tufted storage trunk does three jobs at once: cushioned seating, hidden storage, and a design statement. Influencers like Mr. Kate, Studio McGee, and Alexandra Gater often mention them during room tours because tufting adds textural depth while the hollow interior solves the perennial problem of where to stash blankets, shoes, or hobby supplies.
How I chose these 9 trunks (what influencers look for)
I used selection criteria I learned watching top YouTube channels: build quality, upholstery material, tufting pattern, storage capacity, hardware quality, and overall styling versatility. I also considered real availability—each product below is currently orderable from major retailers—and I prioritized pieces recommended repeatedly by credible home decor creators.
1) Baxton Studio Jemma Tufted Storage Bench (Linen Beige)
- Features: Button-tufted linen upholstery, dense foam cushion, hinged lid with safety support, interior lined with cotton fabric.
- Materials & Dimensions: Solid rubberwood frame, linen-blend fabric in beige, 47.2″ L x 16.9″ W x 18.1″ H.
- Colors available: Linen Beige, Charcoal Grey.
- Why influencers like it: Clean mid-century silhouette with deep tufting gives a sophisticated, yet casual look for entryways and end-of-bed seating.
- My take: I used this at the foot of a queen bed to hide seasonal bedding; the lid opens easily and the foam cushion is comfortable enough for quick shoe changes.
- Visual details: The linen weave has a soft, matte texture that photographs beautifully in natural light, and the tufting creates a subtle shadow play across the top.
- Value proposition: Affordable mid-century styling, sturdy build, and a widely available option for budget-conscious shoppers.
2) HomePop Upholstered Tufted Storage Ottoman Bench (Navy Velvet)
- Features: Deep button tufting on a plush velvet top, sturdy wooden legs with walnut finish, flip-up storage with fabric lining.
- Materials & Dimensions: Polyester velvet upholstery, hardwood legs, 42″ L x 17″ W x 18″ H.
- Colors available: Navy, Blush Pink, Grey, Teal.
- Why influencers like it: Velvet instantly elevates a space—this one reads luxe on camera without costing a fortune.
- My take: I placed it in my living room as a coffee table substitute; I get compliments on the deep indigo velvet that catches the light.
- Visual details: Velvet pile shows a soft sheen when you brush it; tuft dots create classic, quilt-like pockets across the top.
- Practical note: Velvet draws attention to dust and pet hair, so keep a soft lint roller handy.
3) Pottery Barn Ainsley Upholstered Storage Bench (Linen Blend)
- Features: Channel-tufted bench top, kiln-dried hardwood frame, soft-close hinges, interior storage divided for organization.
- Materials & Dimensions: 48″ L x 18″ W x 19″ H, linen blend upholstery in warm neutrals.
- Colors available: Oat, Storm, Charcoal.
- Why influencers like it: Pottery Barn’s build quality and timeless aesthetic make this a reliable investment piece mentioned often on renovation and styling channels.
- My take: The soft-close hinges are a practical luxury—no slamming lids. I store craft supplies and extra throws; the compartmenting helps keep things tidy.
- Visual details: The channel tufting provides a linear texture that complements Scandinavian and farmhouse styles.
- Value proposition: Higher price, but excellent craftsmanship and long-term durability.
4) Safavieh Lorraine Tufted Storage Bench (Antique White)
- Features: Rolled arms, deep button tufting, decorative nailhead trim, interior storage compartment.
- Materials & Dimensions: Solid hardwood frame, velvet-like polyester upholstery, 50″ L x 18″ W x 20″ H.
- Colors available: Antique White, Grey, Blush.
- Why influencers like it: It’s the go-to for cottage-core and soft-girl aesthetics—romantic detailing makes it camera-ready.
- My take: In my hallway, the nailhead trim and rolled silhouette read like a small settee; people often assume it’s an heirloom piece.
- Visual details: The velvet-like fabric and tufted buttons create a plush, inviting surface that catches highlights and shadows.
- Practical note: Decorative trim increases visual interest but can limit placement if you need a sleeker, minimalist profile.
5) West Elm Tufted Linen Storage Bench (Belgian Flax)
- Features: Belgian flax linen upholstery, generous storage compartment, deep tufting with a modern grid layout, reinforced stitching.
- Materials & Dimensions: 46″ L x 16″ W x 18″ H; sustainably sourced wood frame.
- Colors available: Natural, Charcoal, Slate.
- Why influencers like it: West Elm’s modern sensibility and quality materials appear frequently in room-makeover videos.
- My take: The linen texture gives a lived-in, breathable look—perfect for summer styling. It’s firm but comfortable for seating.
- Visual details: Linen surface shows a slubby texture up close, which looks authentic and artisan-made on camera.
- Value proposition: Higher price but great eco-focused materials and a clean modern look.
6) TOV Furniture Brantley Ottoman (Vintage Leather Tufted Trunk)
- Features: Distressed leather upholstery, deep Chesterfield tufting, brass nail accents, lift-top storage.
- Materials & Dimensions: Genuine top-grain leather, 40″ L x 18″ W x 18″ H.
- Colors available: Cognac, Dark Brown.
- Why influencers like it: A leather tufted trunk brings masculine warmth and ages beautifully—often used by creators doing vintage or eclectic looks.
- My take: In a den, it became the focal point. The leather develops a desirable patina fast, giving the space instant personality.
- Visual details: Rich cognac leather with color variation and deep button tufting creates a tactile, lived-in appearance.
- Practical note: Genuine leather needs occasional conditioning, but it repels spills better than lighter fabrics.
7) Zinus Sonsio Upholstered Storage Bench (Grey Chenille)
- Features: Plush chenille fabric, button tufting, steel frame supports, gas-lift hinge mechanism.
- Materials & Dimensions: 44″ L x 16″ W x 18″ H; polyester chenille upholstery.
- Colors available: Light Grey, Charcoal.
- Why influencers like it: Affordable and surprisingly sturdy, often recommended in “small space” and budget makeover videos.
- My take: For college apartments or starter homes, this hits the sweet spot: looks expensive, costs modestly.
- Visual details: Chenille has a velvety nap that reads cozy and inviting in flat-lay shots or entryway reels.
- Value proposition: Best for shoppers who want style without splurging.
8) Anthropologie Tufted Storage Bench — Malory (Hand-Tufted Velvet)
- Features: Hand-tufted velvet top, carved wooden legs with antique finish, interior fabric lining, spring support.
- Materials & Dimensions: 48″ L x 18″ W x 19″ H; velvet upholstery in jewel tones.
- Colors available: Emerald Green, Sapphire Blue, Blush.
- Why influencers like it: Highly stylized and unique—Anthropologie pieces often go viral for their statement-making palettes and artisanal details.
- My take: I used the emerald version in a dressing room and it instantly elevated the whole setup; the jewel tones are saturated and camera-ready.
- Visual details: Hand-tufting shows small irregularities that give it a crafted, boutique appeal.
- Practical note: This is a splurge for a focal piece—consider it if you want a dramatic accent.
9) IKEA LUXEBOY Inspired Look: KLINGSBO (Budget-Friendly Faux-Tufted Storage Ottoman)
- Features: Faux-leather upholstery with stitched tile pattern to mimic tufting, lift-top storage, compact footprint.
- Materials & Dimensions: 39″ L x 15″ W x 17″ H; faux leather (polyurethane) surface.
- Colors available: Black, White.
- Why influencers like it: When a clean look and budget are essential, creators suggest IKEA alternatives that photograph well and are easy to live with.
- My take: It won’t replace deep tufting, but in small spaces it gives a structured, modern look and is effortless to maintain.
- Visual details: Smooth faux-leather surface and stitched squares create a tailored, minimal vibe.
- Value proposition: Best for renters or anyone who needs an inexpensive, stylish solution.
How these trunks fit into women’s everyday lives
I use trunks as bench seating, coffee tables, and hidden craft closets. They’re perfect for women juggling multiple roles—moms, hobbyists, small-space dwellers—because they keep things tidy without sacrificing style. Influencers repeatedly mention how tufted storage trunks “photograph well” and “anchor a vignette,” and that’s true: texture and depth from tufting elevate even a simple neutral palette.
Personal testimonials (from my experience and influencer echoes)
- “I bought the Pottery Barn Ainsley after watching a room tour; the soft-close hinges and clean linen look were exactly as promised,” I told a friend. It’s held up for two years with daily use.
- A YouTube creator I follow raved that the TOV Brantley chest made her living room feel like a gentleman’s club—after a month, the leather looked even richer.
- For budget redecorating, I recommended the Zinus Sonsio to my sister; she texted photos showing a tidy entryway and a huge cost-saving win.
What to look for when buying a tufted storage trunk
- Construction: Look for a hardwood frame (kiln-dried if possible) and reinforced joints for longevity.
- Upholstery: Decide between natural fibers (linen, wool) for breathability, velvet for luxe texture, or leather/faux-leather for durability and easy cleaning.
- Tufting type: Deep button tufting gives a classic look; channel or grid tufting reads more modern.
- Hardware: Safety hinges or gas-lift mechanisms prevent slamming and add a quality feel.
- Interior: Lined interiors protect stored items; divided compartments add organization.
- Dimensions: Measure the intended space—allow for clearance when opening the lid and for traffic flow if used as seating.
- Weight capacity: If using as seating, confirm load specs or opt for benches with solid internal frames.
Buying advice and decision guide
- If you want durability and investment-level quality: choose Pottery Barn Ainsley or West Elm Belgian linen options.
- If you want a luxe look for less: HomePop velvet or Zinus Sonsio give a styled look without big expense.
- If you want vintage character and patina: TOV Brantley leather chest is the best choice.
- If you’re after a statement accent: Anthropologie Malory with hand-tufting and jewel tones.
- If you need the best value for small spaces or renters: IKEA-style faux options.
Care and maintenance tips
- Velvet/chenille: Use a soft upholstery brush to maintain the pile and a lint roller for pet hair.
- Linen: Blot spills immediately; consider professional cleaning for large stains.
- Leather: Condition twice a year with a neutral leather conditioner; wipe spills immediately.
- Hinges: Lubricate metal hinges annually and check for loose screws.
- Interior: Use silica gel packets for moisture-sensitive items; keep fabrics clean before storing to prevent odors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Are tufted storage trunks comfortable enough to sit on daily? A: Many are—especially ones with dense foam and reinforced frames—but check load capacity and look for supportive construction if you’ll use it as primary seating.
Q: Will tufted benches crush bedding or delicate fabrics inside? A: Not if the interior is lined and the top padding isn’t dirty. Fold linens and use tissue or cotton sheets to avoid snagging on buttons or hardware.
Q: Can these trunks be used outdoors? A: Most are designed for indoor use. If you need outdoor storage, look for weatherproof materials like treated wood and outdoor-grade fabrics.
Q: How do I choose the right size for my room? A: Measure your floor plan and leave at least 18–24″ for traffic lanes. For entryways, a 42–48″ bench fits most standard spaces comfortably.
Q: Are tufted trunks hard to clean? A: It depends on fabric. Leather and faux-leather are easiest; velvet and linen need gentler care but are manageable with routine maintenance.
Decor styling tips (as shared by top YouTubers)
- Layer texture: Place a knitted throw and a stack of vintage books on a tufted trunk used as a coffee table.
- Pair with mirrors: A tufted bench under a round mirror creates a balanced entryway vignette.
- Color pops: Use jewel-toned velvet for a single statement piece in an otherwise neutral room to create visual interest.
- Dual use: Put a tray on top to stabilize drinks if using a trunk as a coffee table. It preserves the fabric and creates a neat surface.
Final thoughts — buying value and lifestyle fit
I recommend choosing a tufted storage trunk not just for looks but for how it will actually fit into your daily routines. If you host often, pick durable upholstery with easy-clean properties. If you’re styling a portrait-perfect nook for photos and videos, a velvet or hand-tufted option will deliver the drama creators love. For renters or tight budgets, the IKEA-inspired options give the neat silhouette without the commitment.
Influencers I trust consistently highlight these same trade-offs—quality vs. style, budget vs. longevity—and that’s exactly what guided my picks. Pick a trunk that solves your storage needs, complements your aesthetic, and offers the tactile details that make a room feel finished.